Sam Shahin Presents Barakat at the Marigny Opera House

Sam Shahin, powerhouse drummer of New Orleans jazz-funk fusion sextet Naughty Professor, is premiering his new musical project, Barakat, with two suites of original music at the Marigny Opera House. Barakat, which is derived from Shahin's paternal grandmother's maiden name as well as the Arabic word for "blessings," is inspired by jazz in Shahin's current home of New Orleans, as well as the Classical Arabic sounds of his ancestral home in Lebanon. Barakat consists of Raja Kassis on guitar and other international strings, Sam Kuslan on keys and piano, and Calvin Morin-Martin on bass. This premiere will also feature pianist Oscar Rossignoli, as well as harpist Cassie Watson Francillon. Besides presenting the debut of Barakat as an ensemble, this performance marks the world premiere of Shahin's original compositions, which include two suites of music woven together with stories about the universal power of family matriarchs, connecting through shared heritage, and generational blessings. Doors at 7 pm, performance at 7:30 pm. Suggested donation $25, $15 for students and seniors (though no one will be turned away for lack of funds). Tickets available at eventbrite.com.